Ground Cumin Health Benefits

Lentil soup is a high-fiber dish that often contains cumin.

Ground cumin, or Cuminum cyminum, is a spice native to regions of the Mediterranean and Asia. Now used worldwide, cumin adds distinctive savory flavor to soups, entrees and salads. Cumin contains a heart-healthy antioxidant called curcumin, along with other compounds that provide health benefits. Cumin may support heart health, reduce your risk for anemia and help fight infections.

Controls Blood Pressure

Each tablespoon of ground cumin contains only 10 milligrams of sodium, which is less than 1 percent of the recommended daily maximum sodium intake, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. Reducing the sodium in your diet can help prevent or lower high blood pressure. Low-sodium herbs and spices, such as ground cumin, add flavor to food so that you can use less salt and other high-sodium seasonings during cooking and at the table.

Improves Iron Levels

Cooking with ground cumin can help prevent iron deficiency, since each teaspoon provides 4 milligrams of iron, or 22 percent of the daily value. As a component of hemoglobin in healthy red blood cells, iron is also an essential mineral for proper metabolism in your body. Symptoms of iron deficiency include shortness of breath and muscle weakness. Children, adolescents and women of child-bearing age are at higher risk for iron deficiency.

Kills Bacteria

For centuries, various cultures have used spices to improve the flavor of foods and to prevent bacterial growth, according to the "Cornell Chronicle." Ground cumin is among the more potent spices for killing bacteria in foods, such as meat. Nations with hot climates, such as India, traditionally use more spices in their foods, presumably to reduce spoilage. Ground cumin may also be effective in killing Staphylococcus aureus bacteria that have infected wounds in humans, according to a study published in "Oman Medical Journal."

Uses and Considerations

Southern Asian and African cuisines traditionally use ground cumin. It is a common ingredient in curry, curry powder mixes and Indian spice mixes. Moroccan stews, tandoori chicken and Middle Eastern chickpea salads also contain cumin. Some European cheeses and many Latin American dishes, such as marinades for beef and dips, have cumin in them. Dried ground cumin seed is a staple food that is available at most grocery stores.

About the Author

Natalie Stein specializes in weight loss and sports nutrition. She is based in Los Angeles and is an assistant professor with the Program for Public Health at Michigan State University. Stein holds a master of science degree in nutrition and a master of public health degree from Michigan State University.

Photo Credits

curry and spices top view image by christopher bishop from Fotolia.com